AAAP Spring 2025 President Letter

Dear AAAP Members,

As we welcome the spring season, I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible work being done within our organization and the poultry industry at large. Our mission remains steadfast: to advance avian medicine, support our members, and advocate for the health and sustainability of our industry.

I am deeply humbled and honored to serve as President of AAAP. This association holds a special place in my heart, and I am truly grateful for the trust you have placed in me in leading such an esteemed group of professionals. The strength of AAAP lies in its members. Your unwavering dedication, expertise, and passion for poultry health are what drive our collective success. I am honored to walk alongside you as we continue to shape the future of avian medicine together.

Our new AAAP committee structure, coordinated by Past President Dr. Deirdre Johnson, has been established to provide a more structured and direct collaboration within the organization. The Committee Directors will oversee four different committees, allowing for increased coordination and interaction to better support our members and the dedicated volunteers who actively contribute to these committees. Their work remains an essential part of our association and plays a crucial role in advancing our collective mission.  We are grateful for having the following directors: Dr. Andrea Zedek, Membership Committee, Dr. Rob Porter, Educational Resources Committee, Dr. Bruce Stewart-Brown, Food Safety, Animal Welfare, and Regulatory Committee, and Dr. Chuck Hofacre, Poultry Diseases Committee.  We look forward to your leadership.

This year, we continue to face significant challenges, particularly with avian influenza and metapneumovirus. These diseases have impacted our industry, underscoring the critical role of surveillance, biosecurity, and vaccination strategies. AAAP has been actively advocating for the availability and approval of vaccines to help mitigate these threats and protect poultry health. Additionally, our collective responsibility in food safety remains at the forefront of our efforts as we navigate evolving regulatory and industry standards.

Weather has also taken a toll on our industry with storms, hurricanes, and extreme conditions affecting poultry operations across different states. The resilience of our industry is remarkable. We come together, support one another, and rebuild stronger. Time and again, we have witnessed the unwavering commitment of our members and industry partners in responding to these challenges, ensuring that poultry production continues despite adversity.

Through these difficulties, the dedication and professionalism of our members shine through. Through collaboration, research, and industry partnerships, we continue to uphold the integrity and resilience of poultry production.

I want to express my deepest appreciation for the hard work of our committees. Your contributions ensure that AAAP remains a driving force in avian medicine. A special thank you goes to the AAAP Office Staff for their ongoing efforts in supporting our initiatives, as well as to our Executive Vice President for their leadership and commitment.

Our outreach programs remain strong, and we take pride in welcoming and mentoring veterinary and poultry science students interested in joining our field. Encouraging the next generation of professionals is essential to sustaining the future of poultry health.

Lastly, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to all our members. Your dedication and passion make AAAP what it is today. It is through your hard work and commitment that we continue to thrive as an organization. I look forward to seeing everyone in Portland at our Annual Meeting, where we will come together once again to share knowledge, strengthen connections, and shape the future of our industry.

Thank you for all that you do. It is an honor to serve you.

With gratitude and appreciation,

Dr. Claudia Osorio
2024-2025 AAAP President

Return to Newsletter